This business aviation blog post is part of a three-part series on operations to Milan during Fashion Week.

Milan Fashion Week takes place four times each year–with 2017 dates being Jan 21-27, Feb 22-28, Jun 17-20 and Sep 20-27. These are periods when general aviation (GA) movements increase and hotel accommodations can become more challenging. For those planning to attend one or all of these high fashion extravaganzas we recommend organizing aircraft parking, crew accommodations and any necessary permits well prior to day of operation.

The following is an overview of what you need to know:

1. Preferred airports

Two airports of entry (AOEs) serve Milan and are available to GA — Linate (LIML) and Malpensa (LIMC). LIML is 10 km from the city center while LIMC is about 45 km out from central Milan. LIMC accommodates overnight parking for any size aircraft. LIML accepts aircraft up to the size of a Boeing 767 for short ground stays, but overnight parking is restricted to aircraft no larger than a Boeing 737-900.

2. Airport curfews

LIMC normally operates 24 hours with customs, immigration, and quarantine (CIQ) clearance, handling and fuel services also 24/7. While LIML is normally a 24-hour AOE there have been rotating temporary night closures going on at this location over the past several months, as published by NOTAM. These temporary curfews have effectively closed LIML to GA arrivals/departures 0000-0530 local during most weeks of the month. Sometimes these closures are hard closures, but at other times, State and air ambulance flights may be permitted to operate, with advance arrangements. Note that closure times are not published until a week prior. So, if you have a night operation planned to/from LIML more than a week out you may end up having to reposition to LIMC should a closure come into play.

3. Airport parking

GA parking is seldom an issue at either LIML or LIMC. We do not expect parking ramps to fill up during Milan Fashion Week periods. LIML has a large West apron available to GA, very close to the general aviation terminal (GAT). Parking spots are often walking distance to the GAT. Runway 35/17 at LIML has been closed for over a year, and this area is now used for overflow parking. Note that all LIML parking stands require push backs, and aircraft are often relocated. So, it’s important to leave brakes off when parking here. LIMC, on the other hand, has no dedicated GA apron, but GA parking never seems to be an issue. Most LIMC parking stands do not require push backs, but some do.

4. Jet fuel uplifts

Fuel is available 24/7 at both Milan airports. However, at LIML the normal operating times are 0530-2400 local, so overtime is needed for refueling outside of those hours. LIML and LIMC both offer Jet A1 fuel. Fuel uplifts should be requested in advance and confirmed by VHF on approach. Fuel delays of up to 40 minutes are possible at LIMC during peak periods of scheduled commercial operations, typically early mornings and late evenings. Major aviation cards and fuel cards are commonly accepted for fuel credit, as are consumer credit cards.

5. Airport security

Airside access controls and airport security are of high standards at both LIML and LIMC, with CCTV surveillance and 24-hour patrols. Private aircraft guards can be arranged, with advance notice, for either airport. In the past it was possible to obtain armed guard services but these days the only options are unarmed guards.

Conclusion

While LIML is usually the preferred GA airport for Milan, due to its close proximity to the city, it’s important to be mindful of potential night curfews and to have contingency plans to proceed to LIMC should you be impacted by a curfew at LIML. However, both airports have plentiful parking for GA operators.

Stay tuned for Part 2, which covers landing permits, ground handling, and local area information when traveling to Milan for Fashion Week.

Stefano Bruno has been with Universal Aviation Italy – Milan-Linate since 2002 and has held the position of station manager since 2011. His areas of expertise include all aspects of handling supervision, as well as FBO management and technical support. Stefano is highly skilled in and familiar with general trip planning and operating procedures at Milan, across Italy, and throughout Europe. He’s developed extensive business connections throughout the Italian and European operating arenas and has the ability to simplify the operating experience for his clients while taking all steps necessary to ensure success of their particular missions. Stefano has a technical aviation diploma and served with the Rome-based presidential guard squadron of the Italian army. He’s fluent in English, Italian, and Spanish. Stefano can be reached at stefanobruno@universalaviation.aero.